Dorset village in uproar after church newsletter publishes poems on ‘fat benefit scroungers’ and ‘illegals’
A vicar in the quaint Dorset village of Uplyme has issued a public apology after his church magazine featured two controversial poems targeting asylum seekers, asylum seekers and fat people.
The Rev. Nicky Davies said he was “truly sorry for any pain caused” by the verses, penned by regular contributor Diana Hunt.
Publication of poems in the magazine Neighborhood News It scandalized many in the local community.
Ms. Hunt, often known for her quirky writings on social events, engaged in political commentary throughout March and April.
His two poems, titled “Broken Britain” and “Know It All”, targeted “useful tramps”, “boatloads of illegals”, fat people and drug users.
Their emergence led to many complaints to longtime editor Robin Hodges; he also later apologized and accepted full responsibility for their inclusion.
Rev Davies, vicar of St Peter and St Paul Uplyme, has now spoken out on the issue and distanced the church from the poems.
“I recognize that the poem Diana wrote has offended and upset some members of our community,” she wrote in the magazine’s May issue.
“This is clear from the responses Editor Robin received and the personal messages sent to me.
“I am truly sorry for any pain caused.
“The poem does not reflect the church.
“Following editorial review regarding its inclusion in the magazine, Robin expressed regret over its publication and apologized to those involved.
“As a church, we are committed to caring for the marginalized through both our charitable giving and our prayers.
“Our goal is always to promote compassion and understanding in our community.”
In his monthly editorial, Mr. Hodges apologized again for publishing the poem.
He said: “As for the poem ‘Broken Britain’ that appeared in last month’s magazine, in hindsight it seems that it was not appropriate for this magazine because it caused some anxiety, anger and sadness in the community.
“I have published many of Diana’s poems over the last few years and always read them as social commentary.
“I edited Neighborhood News It’s been over 25 years and this is the first time I’ve made this kind of judgment mistake regarding any entry.
“The decision to publish the poem was mine alone, so I hope you will forgive my mistake and I apologize for any offense this may have caused.
“I sent personal apologies to all of the people who emailed the magazine with complaints about the poem, and in most cases received a courteous response.
“Neither the church nor Neighborhood News aligning themselves with any political party or party discourse. “We care deeply about the marginalized and vulnerable in our society and support many causes.”
In her poem “Broken Britain”, Ms Hunt wrote: “Lots of illegals are flocking to our shores, step this way for hotel rooms and benefits galore.”
And in his book “Know It All” he wrote: “Most big fat people who say they can’t afford to eat can easily live for weeks on their body fat.”
Ms Hunt later said the poems were intended as a joke and did not represent her views.
While some said the poems had no place in the church magazine, others defended Ms Hunt and said those who complained were ‘woke’.
Rob Johnstone said: “I have just read Diana Hunt’s poems published on Uplyme. Neighborhood News … super stuff, fun and pretty accurate.
“Of course, every village has its fastidious wakes these days, a couple whined (as it happens) and the poor old editor had to apologize…shame.”
Mr Hodges said that after discussing the matter with Ms Hunt it was agreed that she would no longer submit her poems to the magazine, but Mr Hodges denied he had been censored.
